Student Protests Spread Across College Campuses Following Arrests at Columbia University
Student protests over the Israel-Hamas war have sparked a wave of demonstrations on college campuses across the United States. The movement gained momentum after more than 100 protesters were arrested at Columbia University last week, leading to a surge in activism at other universities.
At Columbia University, pro-Palestinian student protesters established a tent encampment on campus, leading to a clash with police and subsequent arrests. Despite attempts to disband the protest, students remained steadfast in their demands for the university to sever ties with companies supporting Israel’s military efforts in Gaza.
Similar protests erupted at Northeastern University in Boston, where police in riot gear cleared an encampment that had been infiltrated by outside organizers. Antisemitic slurs were reported, prompting the school to take disciplinary action against the protesters.
The University of Southern California canceled its main graduation ceremony after protests disrupted campus activities. The university faced backlash for canceling a commencement speech by a pro-Palestinian valedictorian, citing safety concerns.
At George Washington University in Washington, D.C., students demanded divestment from Israel and the lifting of a suspension against a pro-Palestinian student group. The protests led to disruptions in campus activities, prompting the university to relocate law school finals to accommodate the demonstrations.
Protests also took place at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, where students occupied buildings and blocked entrances using furniture and chains. The university extended its closure until the end of the semester, citing safety concerns.
The wave of protests spread to other campuses, including New York University, Emory University, and Indiana University Bloomington, where clashes between protesters and law enforcement resulted in arrests and disciplinary actions.
The University of Pennsylvania and the University of Florida also faced protests, with university officials condemning the actions of demonstrators and warning of sanctions for violating campus policies.
The demonstrations at Arizona State University saw protesters pitching tents on campus, leading to arrests and warnings from university authorities.
The student protests reflect a growing movement on college campuses to show solidarity with Palestinians and call for an end to the violence in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Despite facing challenges and opposition, students remain committed to advocating for change and holding their universities accountable for their actions.
